Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak at Pallekele on Friday night as they fell agonisingly short by just five runs against Pakistan in a high-scoring Super Eights thriller.

Chasing a daunting 213, Sri Lanka finished on 207/6 in 20 overs, with captain Dasun Shanaka producing one of the most explosive knocks of the tournament — 76 off just 31 balls, including eight towering sixes at a strike rate of 245.16.

Pakistan Post 212 in Run-Fest

Earlier, Pakistan piled up 212/8 after being sent in to bat. Sahibzada Farhan led the charge at the top, while Pakistan’s middle order capitalised on dew conditions that made life difficult for the Sri Lankan spinners.

Despite a few breakthroughs, Sri Lanka struggled to contain the flow of runs in the latter half of the innings, leaving themselves a steep target under lights.

Sri Lanka’s Fightback Falls Just Short

Sri Lanka’s reply had momentum shifts throughout. Cameos from Kamil Mishara and Charith Asalanka gave early impetus before a middle-order wobble threatened to derail the chase.

However, Pavan Rathnayake once again showcased maturity beyond his years, stabilising the innings before Shanaka launched a brutal counterattack in the final overs.

With 18 needed off the last over against Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shanaka attempted to finish the contest in style but Pakistan’s premier pacer held his nerve, conceding just enough to seal a dramatic five-run victory.

Shanaka: “I Could’ve Finished It”

Speaking after the match, Shanaka took responsibility for the narrow defeat.

“It was a close game, I could’ve finished it. Well bowled to Shaheen. Yes, we’re disappointed. I want to say sorry to the fans,” he said.

The skipper also highlighted the impact of injuries on Sri Lanka’s campaign:

“Unfortunately, we fell down to injuries. Missing two key bowlers in Hasaranga and Pathirana. I hope they’ll return soon and do well for Sri Lanka cricket.”

He acknowledged the emotional toll of the tournament exit:

“Sometimes, as players, we feel pressure. It was a mistake, I’m sorry to fans for disheartening them. We’re thankful for all the support.”

Shanaka also praised emerging players in the squad:

“Rathnayake is consistent and uses the crease well. We have Wellalage — they’re growing.”

A Tournament of Near Misses

Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka under 147 to stay alive in the competition — a scenario that disappeared well before the 16th over of the chase. Yet in the end, it was Sri Lanka who were left ruing what could have been.

Despite Shanaka’s heroic effort and a spirited late charge, Sri Lanka’s Super Eights journey concluded with another narrow defeat — a campaign defined by flashes of brilliance, injury setbacks, and moments that slipped away at the crucial stage.

Sri Lankan fans gave Shanaka a standing ovation as he walked back — a fitting tribute to a captain who fought until the very last ball.

The FIFA Foundation has extended emergency humanitarian assistance to communities across Sri Lanka following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah.

The tropical storm, which struck South Asia in late November and early December last year, unleashed torrential rainfall that triggered widespread flooding and landslides. Sri Lanka was among the worst affected, with more than 600 confirmed fatalities and over 360 people reported missing. Estimates indicate that between 800,000 and 1.1 million people were impacted nationwide.

Humanitarian Support Through FIFA Foundation

In response to the disaster, the FIFA Foundation has activated its Humanitarian Fund to provide financial assistance to affected districts. The support is being delivered through an international humanitarian partner operating on the ground to ensure urgent needs are addressed swiftly and effectively.

Relief efforts are focused on:

• Emergency shelter for displaced families
• Health services and medical assistance
• Water and sanitation support
• Livelihood assistance for vulnerable communities

Importantly, the initiative also prioritises members of Sri Lanka’s grassroots football network — including young players, coaches and volunteers whose lives have been severely disrupted.

Protecting the Local Football Ecosystem

Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri emphasised the Foundation’s commitment to standing with communities in times of crisis.

“The FIFA Foundation is committed to supporting those most in need when disaster strikes. By partnering with specialised organisations, we ensure that our support reaches football communities efficiently and equitably. Our priority is to address urgent humanitarian requirements while laying the groundwork for potential longer-term recovery support for the local football ecosystem.”

The cyclone has had a profound impact on districts that host youth academies and community football initiatives. Several training grounds and school pitches have been damaged, while many schools have been converted into emergency shelters. As a result, football activities in affected regions have come to a complete halt.

Football Federation Welcomes Support

Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka, expressed gratitude for the timely intervention.

“The impact of Cyclone Ditwah on our communities has been deep, affecting the lives of our young players and the networks that sustain our game. We are grateful for the support of the FIFA Foundation, which is providing vital relief to our football family during this incredibly challenging time.”

Assessments for Long-Term Recovery

FIFA representatives are currently conducting assessment missions to evaluate damage to infrastructure and football facilities. These findings will guide potential future assistance aimed at restoring football activities and rebuilding affected venues once immediate humanitarian priorities have been addressed.

The FIFA Foundation Humanitarian Fund has previously supported relief efforts worldwide, including recent emergency assistance provided to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa.

As Sri Lanka continues its recovery from one of its most severe natural disasters in recent years, the support from global football bodies highlights the unifying and humanitarian power of the sport beyond the pitch.

Sri Lanka Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya is set to step down from his role following today’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan, marking the end of another significant chapter in his long association with Sri Lanka Cricket.

Jayasuriya’s journey in cricket administration began in 2013 when he was appointed Chairman of Selectors. He served in that role until 2015 and later returned for a second stint from 2016 to 2017, guiding the national setup through a challenging transitional phase.

However, his career faced turbulence in 2019 when the International Cricket Council suspended him for two years due to non-cooperation with an anti-corruption investigation. The suspension kept him away from official cricket duties until 2021.

Return to the National Setup

In 2023, Jayasuriya made a comeback as a Consultant and Mentor, signaling his renewed commitment to rebuilding Sri Lankan cricket. His involvement deepened in June 2024 when he was appointed Consultant for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Following the resignation of Chris Silverwood in July 2024, Jayasuriya stepped in as Interim Head Coach. By October 2024, he was officially confirmed as Sri Lanka’s Full-Time Head Coach, a role he held through March 2026.

A Disappointing World Cup Exit

Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup campaign — co-hosted alongside India — ended in disappointment. Led by Dasun Shanaka, the team failed to progress beyond the Super 8 stage despite early promise in the tournament.

The exit has triggered serious reflection within Sri Lanka Cricket, and Jayasuriya’s decision to step down signals the beginning of another rebuilding phase for the national side.

While results may not have gone Sri Lanka’s way in this campaign, Jayasuriya’s influence — both as a player and administrator — remains deeply woven into the fabric of Sri Lankan cricket.

More updates are expected following today’s clash against Pakistan.